Safety Data Sheet Binders

The purpose of the binders

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires chemical manufacturers, distributors, and importers to give their downstream workers full information about the hazards of the chemicals they handle, including protective measures and safety precautions. The information must be made available in a prominent place as close as possible to the handling area, and it should be readily accessible throughout the workday. The requirements include 16 separate sections that may have to be updated as rules and regulations change. Like many other recorders and data loggers for organizing and maintaining documentation, 3-ring binders are a sensible choice for keeping SDSs fully compliant with ongoing OSHA standards.

SDS binders are roomy and strong

Many different-size 3-ring binders are available for various business, school, and home needs. Binders for SDS documents are available in different 3-ring sizes as well, in diameters of 1.5, 2.5, and 3 inches, to accommodate not only the number of SDS sections, but also any additional data sheets that a business may require. Some of these data sheets include safety signs that should be posted as necessary as precautions or instructions to accompany or augment information in the SDS requirements, such as the following:

• Keep Away warnings
• Lockout procedures
• Fire extinguisher location
• Right to Know regulations

As with other heavy duty binders, SDS binders are strong and durable. Most consist of polyethylene, a lightweight though tough and long-lasting polymer that stands up to frequent handling.

Plastic binders are made to be bold and visible

The folders for housing the SDS sections have to be prominent and accessible. Many of the binders have bold red letters spelling out “Safety Data Sheets” on bright white or yellow background covers. The white and yellow binders often contain the titles in both English and Spanish. Most of the binders have long 36-inch chains attached to them so they can be attached permanently to a surface while also providing enough yield that workers can read and handle them.

Display options

A variety of desktop organizers, including racks and bins, are available to give businesses a way to store documents and accessories within easy reach of workers. For chemical workers, vertically hung wire baskets on walls or cabinets are a good way to house binders for SDS documentation. Workers can still see the binders through the wire mesh, yet the basket provides more protection than a surface-attached chain.